Connecticut bill protects people who rescue kids in cars

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Connecticut bill protects people who rescue kids in cars

HARTFORD — Connecticut lawmakers are considering new legal protections for people who try to rescue children from hot or cold vehicles.

The legislature’s Judiciary Committee on Friday approved a bill providing civil and criminal immunity to people who forcefully enter vehicles to remove children from imminent danger. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives.

Cromwell Rep. Christie Carpino says there was a case in February when a child was left unattended inside a car in freezing temperatures. The incident was reported by employees of a business, but the child remained inside the vehicle until authorities arrived. She says the bill would help avoid such situations.

A 15-month-old Ridgefield boy died last summer after being left alone in a hot car. His father took a plea deal and awaits sentencing.